Monday, February 18, 2013

'About Me' (Keeping Ourselves Safe)


Today, we learnt about being 'confident.'  We talked about things that make us so special and unique.  Constable Jasmine came into our classroom and asked us questions about physical actions that make us happy, and physical actions that make us sad.  We also discussed inappropriate actions and behaviour from people around us.  Constable Jasmine stated that it is important for us all to ‘walk tall’ and be proud of who we are and where we come from.  We are all SPECIAL and need to be treated in a safe, caring and appropriate manner.  Thanks Constable Jasmine for your valuable advice, and also for showing us the different equipment you use while keeping our communities safe. 






Our Classroom Treaty

A few weeks ago, we studied the Treaty of Waitangi.  We looked at the importance of an equal partnership between two parties, where the rights of the two are respected and valued.  We believe that this day is an important day for ALL New Zealander's to celebrate.  

We used this model as an example for our own classroom treaty.  These are the treaty guidelines we came up with:

1.  Only one person speaks at a time during paired and whole class learning
2.  Be responsible
3.  Care for everyone
4.  Don't touch or hit others
5.  No running or shouting in the classroom
6.  Have FUN at school

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Whanau Fitness

Last week, Kauri Whanau begin its fitness programme.  The reason for this programme is that we believe that exercise, first period in the morning, will make us all fitter and create a balanced lifestyle.  Fitness also ties into our concept of 'hauora.'  It's a great way to start the day with our mates and whanau, while at the same time, having FUN!
 









Class of 2013




Saturday, February 9, 2013

Agrikids @ Barge Park


On Saturday 9th February, Aimee (Rm 16), Callum (Rm 16) & Ariana (Rm 11) competed in the 'Agrikids Northern Regional Finals' at Barge Park, Whangarei.  The team was known as 'The Saints.'  All members worked co-operatively, diligently and patiently as a team.  The event involved a series of activities, which included: first aid, identifying breeds of sheep with their wool, locating towns of New Zealand, harnessing and dressing a ewe.  The team can be extremely proud of their efforts, considering they were competing against Year 5 to Year 8 students.  Well done team!  A special thanks to the parents/caregivers (and Mrs. Gunson) for supporting the team on the day.  









Blues vs Waratahs - Toll Stadium

Mr. Werder and John Kirwin (Blues Head Coach & 1987 Rugby World Cup All Black)
Mr. Werder, Josh, Graeme Henry (2011 All Black World Cup Coach) and Max

Ali Williams (Blues Captain & All Black lock) and Mr. Werder



Sr Rachel and the importance of Lent

Last week, Sr Rachel spoke to kauri whanau about her missionary work in the Philippines.  Sr Rachel's order is known as the 'Missionaries of Mary.'  She talked about the significance and meaning of the different parts of her uniform, these included:  veil (humility), scapular (service), the colour blue (peace and heaven) and the white (means Christ's resurrection).  After a brief introduction, Sr Rachel showed us images of her service work overseas.  We then discussed the importance of 'giving something up' for Lent and the necessity of prayer during this special time leading up towards Easter.  We wrapped wool around our wrist to remind us of our commitment towards our lenten promise.  Thanks Sr Rachel and God bless.





Wednesday, February 6, 2013

T20 Cricket - NZ vs England


Bowler Matt Henry starred with the bat, slogging a four off the last ball to carry the New Zealand XI to T20 victory over the touring England side at Whangarei's Cobham Oval.

Josh and I watched the New Zealand team cling victory on the final ball of the match.  Josh was lucky enough to get some signatures from the New Zealand squad.  The photo below is of Doug Bracewell, son of John, who played 41 test matches for New Zealand (1979-1984).  Doug is a local Central Districts (CD) player and current Blackcaps test player.


Mr. Werder,  Doug Bracewell & Josh

Reuben and Ah Him showing off their signed cricket bats